Q: A commentary carried by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) criticized China for pressuring the DPRK through sanctions. What is China's comment on that?

A: China's position on denuclearizing the Korean Peninsula is consistent and clear, and so is our position on developing good-neighborly and friendly relations with the DPRK.

For years, the Chinese side has been assessing and dealing with the relevant issue based on its own merits in an objective and impartial manner. We are unwaveringly committed to realizing denuclearization on the Peninsula, safeguarding peace and stability of the Peninsula and resolving the issue through dialogue and consultation. We hope that all the other parties concerned will also assume due responsibilities and contribute their due share to regional peace and stability and the common well-being of people in the region.

Q: According to the Syrian opposition delegation at the Astana talks, Russia proposed the creation of four "safe zones" across Syria. It is not yet clear which international forces will facilitate the security in the four zones. Sources said that Algeria, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates as well as the BRICS are under consideration. Since China is a BRICS member, will China be ready to participate in the international forces to ensure the safety of these four zones if Russia asks Beijing to do so?

A: I need to get more information on the specifics you mentioned.

As a principle, the Chinese side supports efforts conducive to lowering tensions in Syria, consolidating ceasefire and cessation of violence there, and politically resolving the Syrian issue. The Chinese side also believes that Syria's sovereignty and territorial integrity must be upheld and respected.

Q: On May 3, the US Congressional-Executive Commission on China held a hearing on "Will the Hong Kong Model Survive? An Assessment 20 Years After the Handover", finding fault with the implementation of "one country, two systems" in Hong Kong over the past 20 years. What is China's response to that?

A: The relevant hearing constitutes a blatant interference in China's internal affairs including Hong Kong affairs. The Chinese side is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposed to it. "One country, two systems", "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy have been earnestly implemented since the return of Hong Kong 20 years ago. It is an undeniable fact for all those without prejudice.

The so-called commission you mentioned is always biased against China. Defying facts and driven by ulterior motives, the commission claimed at the so-called hearing that the practice of "one country, two systems" in Hong Kong was eroded, and press freedom and judicial independence threatened.

Hong Kong is a special administrative region of China, and Hong Kong affairs fall totally within China's internal affairs. We are firmly opposed to any country's interference in Hong Kong affairs in any form. The attempts of some individuals in Hong Kong to collude with foreign forces in meddling with Hong Kong affairs will never succeed.